Investigating a Tragedy

The review panel appointed by Virginia governor Tim Kaine to investigate the circumstances surrounding the April 16 shooting at Virginia Tech met on Mason’s Fairfax Campus in April. Portions of the meetings were broadcast live on C-SPAN.

Photo by Nicolas Tan

Sound Bite

“Eighteen year olds cast ballots for president for the first time in 1972, when nearly 50 percent of 18 to 24 year olds voted. ‘Since 1972, the trend line for young voters has been relatively stable with peaks and valleys,’ says Michael McDonald, professor of government and politics at Mason. ‘Turnout among young voters or any group with traditionally low participation depends a lot on how interesting the election itself is.’”

New York Times, June 13, 2007

Play House

Mason’s Child Development Center held a grand opening for its new facility in the northeast section of the Fairfax Campus in June. Children who attend the center held up letters reading, “Thank you Mr. Erik. We love our CDC,” referring to building project manager Erik Backus. Backus, who worked in Facilities Planning, has since been called back to military service to serve a second tour in Iraq. The children plan to send him this photo to show their appreciation.

Photo by Evan Cantwell

In the Swing

The Washington Glory, a professional women’s softball team that plays its home games at Mason, won 34 of its first 44 games and captured the regular season title in the National Pro Fastpitch League. The Glory uses the Softball Complex on Rapidan River Road near the Field House.

Photo provided by Washington Glory